AS 

3&S 


^  >~r  < 


'    <       V~-  "VA.,'f 

UFE  COLORS  t 


ADELINE 
HINCKJLEY 


THE  LIBRARY 

OF 
THE  UNIVERSITY 

OF  CALIFORNIA 
LOS  ANGELES 


fir-  *£" 


LIFE-COLORS 


m 

N« 


LIFE-  COLORS 


BY 

ADELINE  HINCKLEY 


NEW  YORK 
THE  NEALE  PUBLISHING  COMPANY 

1914 


COPYRIGHT,  1914,  BY 
THE  NEALE  PUBLISHING  COMPANY 


ps 


LIFE-COLORS 

OUR  lives  are  like  the  paintings  made 
By  artist  hands.    We  have  the  choice 

Of  colors  fair,  and  those  that  fade 
We  know  at  first  by  common  voice. 

But  oft  we  trial  make,  and  then 

The  truth  is  shown  to  men  again. 

We  choose  the  blue  of  truth  and  find 

Its  strengthening  power.    But  when  we  look 

For  grace  in  life,  we  needs  must  wind 
The  green  of  hope  around.    The  nook, 

In  springtime's  green,  gives  promise  sure 

Of  life  immortal,  true,  and  pure. 

Ofttimes  the  Master  Artist  gives 
The  shape  and  color  too.    He  knows 

In  dullest  shades  rare  beauty  lives; 
That  symmetry  of  line  oft  goes 

With  shadows  cast  upon  the  earth; 

That  saddest  lives  to  grace  give  birth. 

To  some  He  gives  the  red  and  gold 
Of  life  that  they  may  be  a  rest 
5 


LIFE-COLORS 


To  weary  eyes.    True  love  they  hold 

As  gift  of  God,  and  do  their  best 
To  share  its  glow.    As  God  is  love, 
So  they  resemble  Him  above. 


CONTENTS 

PAGE 

Life-Colors 5 

LlFE-COLORS 

The  War  of  Forces n 

Thought  Force 13 

Companionship 14 

God's  School 15 

The  Message 17 

A  Prayer 19 

Immanuel 20 

Garments 22 

On  the  Heights 24 

The  Star 26 

Wall  Building 28 

The    Commonplace 30 

The  World  a  Bridge 32 

Our  Helmsman 34 

The  Daily  Rub  of  Circumstance 35 

Success 36 

Hewn-Out  Cisterns 38 

Two  Types 40 

The  Current 41 

The  Inner  Calm 42 

The  Increase 43 

Be  Thyself 45 

Quatrain 47 


CONTENTS 


NARRATIVE  POEMS 

Avis 51 

The  Great  Stone  Face 54 

Little  All  Right  Man 56 

The  Gift  of  Wings 58 

A  Leader  of  Men 60 

"Another" 62 

Wayfarers 64 

Brave  Spirits 67 

SONNETS 

The  Reward 73 

Rest 74 

The  Ranks  of  Men 75 

The  Leader 76 

Birch  Rock 77 

After  Storm 78 

Voices 79 

The  Magic  Robe 80 

NATURE 

The  Evergreens 83 

The  Willow 84 

The  Elm 86 

The  Wind's  Frolic 87 

July's   Glory 89 

Good  Cheer 91 

Arbutus 93 

Song  of  the  Ferns 95 


LIFE-COLORS 


LIFE-COLORS 

THE  WAR  OF  FORCES 

THE  rocks  like  strongest  bastions  stand 
Their  watch  still  keeping  close  and  true. 

Their  reddish  base  is  fixed  in  sand, 
While  tops  present  a  grayish  hue. 

The  waves  in  serried  ranks  and  files 
Roll  in  unceasingly.    They  mock 

At  sand,  but  stay  their  course  at  piles 
Of  stones  and  sheer  plain  face  of  rock. 

And  some  retreat  in  order  good 

And  spend  no  shred  of  strength  in  vain; 

While  others  act  as  if  they  would 
Tear  down  the  rock  and  build  again. 

The  white  sea-foam  leaps  madly  up 
And  turns  in  air  its  somersaults. 

And  here  it  fills  a  rocky  cup, 
And  there  it  forward  goes,  then  halts. 
11 


LIFE-COLORS 


The  constant  fretting  of  the  waves 
Has  brought  a  polish  smooth  and  fine. 

This  daily  friction  surely  saves 
From  ugliness  in  curve  and  line. 

The  restless,  changing,  shifting  sea 
Beats  at  the  feet  of  moveless  rocks; 

And  thus  man's  life  must  constant  be 
In  midst  of  driving  storm  that  mocks. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  13 


THOUGHT  FORCE 
"As  a  man  thinketh  in  his  heart  so  is  he." 

THE  secret  thoughts  deep  hid  within  the  heart 
Are  measure  of  the  man.    His  hopes  mid  fears 

Are  like  the  brisking  winds  that  blow  and  start 
The  ship  well  on  its  way  as  helmsman  steers. 

Then  adverse  winds  arise  and  progress  slow 
Is  made.     Yet  skilful  helmsman  still  may  keep 

His  onward  way  against  this  powerful  foe. 

A  change,  and  now  the  yachts  the  waves  o'erleap. 

Thus  hope  buoys  up  the  man  and  makes  him  dare 
Success  which  follows  in  the  wake  of  work. 

But  fear  is  like  a  heavy  weight  of  care 
Which  bears  him  down  with  ills  that  hidden  lurk. 

And  thoughts  of  love  will  blossom  forth  as  deeds 

Of  charity.    A  heart  all  full  of  love 
Will  give  close  heed  to  all  his  neighbor's  needs 

And  share  in  thought  and  work  of  God  above. 


14  LIFE-COLORS 


'  COMPANIONSHIP 


THE  dear  companionship  of  friends 

Gives  life  its  wonted  zest. 
No  day  can  dreary  be  that  sends 
One  friend  to  bless  the  man  who  spends 

His  strength  without  a  rest. 

But  extra  joyous  is  that  day, — 

And  gone  too  soon,  alas !  — 
In  which  he  meets  upon  the  way 
Himself  so  strange  and  bids  him  stay 

And  will  not  let  him  pass. 

And  priceless  are  the  hours  each  day 

He  spends  in  intercourse 
With  God.    Withdrawn  from  earthly  fray, 
He  views  the  straight  and  narrow  way 

And  gains  in  heavenly  force. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  15 


GOD'S  SCHOOL 

WHEN  children  go  to  school  to  learn 
The  easy  lessons  there  laid  down, 

The  mothers  stay  at  home  and  yearn 
To  see  them  coming  through  the  town. 

The  child  who  works  with  vim  soon  finds 
A  joy  in  lessons  done,  which  leads 

Him  on  to  seek  from  wiser  minds 

The  helpful  thoughts  which  meet  his  needs. 

But  some  soon  tire  of  work  and  plan 
To  con  old  lessons  o'er;  no  thought 

Have  they  of  added  joys  which  man 
Secures  by  battles  daily  fought. 

Thus  in  the  school  of  life  God  sets 

New  tasks  when  old  are  done.     He  spares 

No  man  the  heavy  load,  but  lets 

Strength  grow,  as  each  his  burden  bears. 

A  slothful  life  and  present  ease 

Bespeak  a  future  lack  of  force. 
Then  God  does  not  his  children  tease, 

But  drives  them  to  the  Living  Source. 


16  LIFE-COLORS 


His  love  has  strength  to  use  the  rod 
To  make  man  fit  to  claim  his  own 

Great  heritage.    For  life  with  God 
Requires  the  pure  in  heart  alone. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  17 


THE  MESSAGE 

ABOVE  the  shepherds'  heads  the  angel  host 

Proclaimed,  "  Lo,  peace  on  earth,  good  will  to  men." 

The  angels'  song  became  their  joy  and  boast 
As  life  resumed  the  same  dull  round  again. 

And  when  came  news  of  children  slain,  the  thought 
Of  sorrowing  mothers  filled  their  hearts  with  grief. 

The  promised  good  to  men  was  dearly  bought 
At  price  of  cruelty  beyond  belief. 

Most  slowly  passed  the  years  as  day  by  day 

Their  sheep  they  watched,  and  fainter  grew  their  hopes 

Of  succor  for  mankind.     The  angel  lay, 

Still  clear  in  mind,  with  lurking  fear  now  copes. 

The  Jordan  valley  soon  was  thronged  with  men, 
When  John  the  Baptist  preached  repentance  fit 

To  meet  their  sins.    Within  the  shepherds'  ken 
Came  word  of  prophet  old  from  Holy  Writ. 

"  Prepare  the  way.     Make  smooth  the  paths  that  now 
Are  rough."     And  people  asked,  "  What  must  we  do  ?  " 

The  answer  came,  "  Do  justice.     Teach  men  how 
To  show  for  other  men  their  love  and  rue." 


18  LIFE-COLORS 


The  shepherds  strove  to  make  their  lives  more  true 
And  watched  their  sheep  with  extra  care   and  love; 

For  He,  the  Chosen  One,  might  come,  and  few 
Be  found  whose  toil  was  praise  to  God  above. 

Then  Jesus  preached  throughout  the  land  and  wrought 
His  wondrous  deeds.  "  A  shepherd  true  am  I 

Who  gives  his  life  for  wandering  sheep.  Thus  sought, 
They  turn  and  feel  at  rest;  for  I  am  nigh." 

And  as  he  taught  of  love  which  gave  its  all 
And  spared  not  life  itself,  in  hearts  once  hard 

There  grew  desire  to  answer  Jesus'  call 
And  live  henceforth  intent  and  on  their  guard 

Against  the  selfish  waste  of  life.    For  each 
Fares  on  and  leaves  on  earth  no  trace,  except 

As  deeds  and  love  of  his  still  live  and  reach 
Fruition.     Thus  the  earth  with  love  is  swept. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  19 


A  PRAYER 

DEAR  God  and  Father  of  us  all, 
Give  heed,  as  on  Thy  name  we  call. 

Give  quiet,   peaceful   rest  this  night, 
And  make  us  strong  for  daily  fight. 

Give  hearts  at  rest  from  vain  desires, 
But  all  aglow  with  heavenly  fires. 

Give  minds  intent  to  see  the  right, 
And  make  us  pure  in  thy  clear  sight. 

Give  love  that  speaks  in  kindly  deeds, 
That  clothes  the  poor,  the  hungry  feeds. 

Give  forceful  aim  and  strength  of  will; 
So  all  of  life  with  beauty  fill. 


20  LIFE-COLORS 


IMMANUEL 

As  fledglings  far  from  nest  and  mother  bird 

Fly  round  bereft  of  hope, 

So  men  with  troubles  cope. 
But  some  with  fortitude  and  patience  gird 
Themselves,  because  they  know  that  God  above 
Still  guides  their  steps,  and  plans  their  way  with  love. 

Amid  the  storms  and  changing,  shifting  sands 

Of  life  they  know  a  place 

Where  all  the  weary  race 
Of  men  find  rest;  a  rock  in  desert  lands 
Whose  welcome  shade  gives  strength  and  quietness 
To  men  who  run  the  race,  and  know  life's  stress. 

With  eagle  wings  the  young  soar  forth  intent 

To  scan  the  heavens  high 

Where  promised  mansions  lie. 
With  eager  hopes  and  hearts  most  confident 
They  plan  to  bring  to  earth  the  Golden  Age, 
Whose  deeds  shall  glow   from  every  printed  page. 

With  drooping  pinions  they  return  to  earth, 
Where  out  of  heart  they  dwell, 


POEMS  OF  LIFE 


And  their  sad  story  tell 

Of  blasted  hopes.    And  life  seems  little  worth 
The  effort  spent  to  make  earth  fitting  place 
For  those  who  come  of  Godlike,  heavenly  race. 

But  now,  with  hopes  restored,  they  fly  again 

On  strong,  sure  wings  of  faith 

Which  proves  no  useless  wraith, 
But  spirit  strong  to  bear  them  upward  when 
The  stormy  winds  of  doubt  do  blow.     They  know 
That  truth  prevails,  as  future  time  will  show. 


LIFE-COLORS 


GARMENTS 

GOD  clothes  the  fields  with  flowers  fair, 
Which  month  by  month  their  blossoms  show. 
The  buttercups  and  daisies  glow 

'Neath  June's  glad  sun  with  beauty  rare. 

And  August's  heated  sun  soon  calls 

The  golden  hosts  of  tansy  out. 

Soon  goldenrod,  in  reckless  rout, 
Is  found  dose  packed  beside  stone  walls. 

God  clothes  humanity  with  love, 
Which  often  comes  to  sweetest  bloom 
In  simple  lives.    It  lacks  fair  room, 

When  mind  and  riches  press  above. 

Unsightly  wounds  at  times  appear 
On  nature's  face.    For  men  must  dig 
Earth's  riches  out,  and  so  a  big, 

Deep  gash  results  on  mountain  near. 

But  verdure  covers  o'er  each  blot 
With  pressing  haste.    For  ugliness 
Is  sin  'gainst  God  and  man,  and  stress 

Needs  be  to  beautify  each  plot. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  23 

So  man  receives  deep  wounds,  through  loss 
Of  friends  and  fortune  gone,  and  naught 
Assuages  grief.  Thus  sadly  caught 

In  sorrow's  toils  he  bears  his  cross. 

But  healing  love  soon  does  its  work, 
And  gaping  wounds  close  up.     New  life. 
New  love  gives  worth  to  daily  strife, 

And  thoughts  of  loss  now  hidden  lurk. 


24  LIFE-COLORS 


ON  THE  HEIGHTS 

THE  mountains  in  their  grandeur  seem 
Fit  meeting  place  for  God  and  man. 

On  Sinai's  slopes  mid  flashing  gleam 
Of  lightning,  Moses  heard  the  plan 

For  Israel,  God's  chosen  men 

Who  often  sinned,  but  rose  again. 

The  Greeks  in  search  of  truth  and  strength 
Through  righteousness,  oft  took  their  way 

To  Delphi;  for  throughout  the  length 
Of  Greece  this  oracle  held  sway. 

On  slope  of  mountain  side  it  stood, 

The  advocate  of  nation's  good. 

Apart  on  mountain  high  the  three 
Went  with  the  Christ.     His  face  became 

Like  brightest  sun,  his  garments  free 

From  stain  and  white  as  snow.    Why  blame 

Disciples  for  their  wish  to  stay 

Apart  from  crowds  that  pressed  each  day? 

We  climb  the  mountain  heights  to  gain 
Clear  views  of  earth  beneath,  and  see 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  25 

True  values.     Hills  we  climbed  with  pain 

Become  mere  gentle  slopes.     So  free 
We  feel,  we  almost  float  above 
The  fields,  through  our  consuming  love. 

We  have  the  dreams  of  youth  and  gleams 

Of  light  to  make  our  vision  clear. 
And  we  feel  sure  the  Sun's  own  beams 

Will  light  our  path.     We  need  not  fear 
To  press  straight  on,  though  dim  the  way; 
For  God  gives  light  for  every  day. 


26  LIFE-COLORS 


THE  STAR 

THE  sun  had  set,  but  still  the  night 

Had  not  wrapped  the  earth  in  her  sable  gown. 
The  hills  stood  clear  in  the  golden  light 
Which  the  sun  had  left  behind.     On  a  height, 

Low  pines  formed  groups,  through  which  peeped  down 
The  crescent  moon,  though  in  full  flght. 

The  lake  lay  soothed  to  rest,  though  trace 
Of  the  tumult  and  toil  of  the  day  was  seen 

In  the  border  of  foam,  which  the  wind  in  its  race 

O'er  the  lake  had  tossed  to  the  edge.     Its  face 
Lay  smooth  in  the  light,  which  needs  must  mean 

That  the  stirred  waves  had  gained  new  grace. 

This  picture  of  beauty  soothed  the  heart, 
Yet  satisfied  not.     For  winds  might  rise, 

And  clouds  would  lower,  and  then  what  art 
Would  suffice?    And  days  of  storm  seem  a  part 

Of  the  mortal  life  below,  where  sighs 
And  tears  display  the  hidden  dart. 

In  the  East  glowed  the  planet  Mars,  and  brought 
New  cheer  to  the  weary  heart.    It  told 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  27 

Of  the  star  which  the  Wise  Men  saw,  then  sought 

The  King  of  Prophecy.     And  nought 
But  hope  could  rise  in  the  heart  whose  gold 

Consists  in  the  faith  the  Savior  taught. 


28  LIFE-COLORS 


WALL  BUILDING 

THE  Jews  at  home  were  in  sore  straits; 

For  foes  pressed  hard  on  every  side. 

Jerusalem,  their  crown  of  pride, 
Had  ruined  walls  and  broken  gates. 

They  sent  to  distant  Babylon, 
To  Nehemiah,  known  to  fame 
As  king's  attendant.    When  he  came, 

He  seemed  like  glory  of  the  sun. 

And  while  they  slept,  he  viewed  the  wall, 
Nor  lost  his  courage  at  the  sight. 
He  fired  their  hearts  with  zeal  to  right 

The  wrong,  and  answer  duty's  call. 

He  placed  them  band  by  band  to  build 
The  wall  at  spot  near  home.     He  called 
The  country  folk  to  aid,  and  walled 

The  city  in,  as  he  had  willed. 

Jerusalem  became  stronghold 
Against  the  robber  raids.    Her  foes 
Were  put  to  shame,  and  her  worst  woes 

Died  out,  save  as  in  story  told. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  29 

Society  has  need  of  walls 

To  guard  her  sacred  spots.     No  one 
Can  build  them  up,  but  all  must  run 

To  share  the  task,  when  leader  calls. 

The  walls  of  ancient  truth  may  fall, 
But  newer  walls  must  stand  four  square 
To  all  the  winds  that  blow.    We  dare 

Not  waste  our  strength,  since  doubts  appal. 

And  though  it  be  a  citadel 

We  care  not  for,  'tis  still  our  task 

To  give  our  strength  to  those  who  ask 

That  we  help  build  the  walls  which  fell. 


SO  LIFE-COLORS 


THE  COMMONPLACE 

A  LOVER  of  life  felt  his  faith  grow  faint; 

So  he  sought  the  hidden  cause. 
He  found,  full  soon,  his  chief  complaint 
Lay  not  in  ills  that  people  paint 

In  lurid,  striking  clause. 

Like  endless  desert  land  his  life 

Stretched  out  without  a  spot 
Of  color,  and  even  his  love  for  wife 
And  child  seemed  cause  of  endless  strife; 

For  it  held  him  to  his  lot. 

The  common  things  of  life  now  palled 

Upon  his  taste.     He  felt 
That  constant,  ceaseless  work  had  walled 
Him  in.     Outside,  sweet  voices  called, 

And  caused  his  heart  to  melt. 

These  dulcet  tones  he  must  not  heed, 

Nor  fail  to  daily  tread 
The  well-worn  path.     But  pressing  need 
Of  wider  look  must  make  him  feed 

His  hungry  soul  and  head. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  31 

He  loved  the  bounteous  earth  and  all 

Its  store  of  treasured  good. 
With  mind  alert  he  heard  the  call 
Of  robins  neath  projecting  wall, 

Where  crowded  close  they  stood. 

But  still  his  pulse  changed  not,  as  when 

This  harbinger  of  spring 
Appeared  one  cold  March  day.     For  then 
That  voice  brought  word  to  waiting  men 

That  birds  henceforth  would  sing. 

And  once  he  drank  the  wine  of  joy, 

Which  filled  his  frame  with  wild, 
Exultant  bliss.  Stern  tasks  employ 
His  loved  one  now,  and  oft  annoy, 

Though  still  her  face  is  mild. 

And  ca'res  he  less  for  robins  now 

That  hundreds  daily  sing? 
And  loves  he  less,  now  marriage  vow 
Has  made  familiar  chastened  brow, 

And  youth  has  taken  wing? 

No,  common  things  of  every  day 

Are  dearest  far  to  all. 
The  good  lies  strewn  about  our  way, 
Like  flowers  that  bloom  in  sun's  warm  ray, 

And  love  of  God  recall. 


32  LIFE-COLORS 


THE  WORLD  A  BRIDGE 

THIS  world  is  not  our  fixed  abode, 

But  just  a  bridge  which  spans  the  way 

From  birth  to  death;  a  glorious  road 
Which  gives  a  view  on  clearest  day 
Of  distant  land  where  we  shall  stay. 

The  fogs  of  doubt  and  clouds  of  sin 
Shut  off  the  view  of  light  divine ; 

And  midst  the  traffic  and  the  din 
Of  hurrying  feet,  we  often  dine 
Without  a  sup  of  heavenly  wine. 

The  ancient  bridge  o'er  Arno's  stream 
Still  holds  its  wonted  place.     Still  cling 

Along  its  sides  the  shops,  which  gleam 
With  glittering  gold  and  sparkling  ring 
Whose  praises  rival  merchants  sing. 

We  pass  these  trinkets  by,  and  reach 
The  central  arch,  whence  we  can  see 

Fair  views  which  rouse  our  souls,  and  teach 
True  values.     Thoughts  of  self  here  flee 
At  sight  of  river  flowing  free. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  33 

So  hearts  that  fix  their  thoughts  on  gold 
And  earth's  vain  store  can  never  know 

The  fairer  sights  which  must  unfold 
Before  the  seeing  eye.     They  go 
With  eyes  intent  on  ground  below. 

But  rich  and  full  is  now  the  life 
Of  those  who  know  that  solid  rock 

Awaits  the  man  whose  weary  strife 
With  shifting  sand  has  seemed  to  mock 
His  powers,  and  all  his  progress  block. 

Determined  spirits  know  that  strength 
Results  from  faring  on.     So  all 

With  eager  hearts  go  on  through  length 
Of  days,  and  heed  each  daily  call, 
Nor  let  sore  ill,  nor  wrongs  appal. 


84  LIFE-COLORS 


OUR  HELMSMAN 

AT  sea  when  surging  billows  dash 
Athwart  the  steamer's  sides,  and  crash 
Of  masts  is  heard,  we  place  our  trust 
In  helmsman  sure.    And  though  a  gust 
Of  wind  may  drive  us  from  our  course, 
We  feel  he  has  a  sure  resource. 

Amid  the  tumult  and  the  strife, 
Which  vex  our  souls  each  day  of  life, 
We  turn  with  trust  to  One  who  knows 
Our  path,  and  will  not  let  our  foes 
Prevail.    In  Him  we  have  a  sure, 
Strong  hold,  which  always  will  endure. 

This  confidence  gives  strength  to  fight 
Our  foes,  and  work  with  all  our  might 
With  vict'ry  sure,  we  make  a  dash 
For  freedom,  heeding  not  the  gash 
That  fortune  gives,  since  sure  at  last 
We  reach  an  end  of  work  so  vast. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  35 


THE  DAILY  RUB  OF  CIRCUMSTANCE 

To  guard  the  desecrated  home  of  kings, 

The  massive  walls  of  ancient  Tiryns  rise. 
Since  gateway  lacks  the  dignity  of  wings, 
The  galleries  in  walls  seem  chief  the  things 
That  draw  the  tourist  searching  for  a  prize. 

For  centuries  the  sheep  have  wandered  through 

The  narrow  passage  'twixt  the  walls  and  sought 
Relief  from  outer  heat.     'Twas  here  they  flew 
When  false  alarm  gave  rise  to  noisy  hue; 
Here  bruised  their  sides  against  the  stones  for  naught. 

As  decades  grew  to  centuries,  the  rock 

Grew  beautiful;  for  daily  pressure  gave 
A  lustre  nothing  else  could  do.  Here  flock 
Now  followed  flock,  and  years  made  rough-hewn  block 

Become  as  smooth  as  fairest  marble  nave. 

Thus  daily,  hourly  rub  of  circumstance 

Shows  texture  of  the  man.     It  graves  the  face 

As  constant  friction  did  the  rock.     One  glance 

At  face,  and  men  discern  the  dalliance 
Or  resolute  attempt  to  win  the  race. 


36  LIFE-COLORS 


•    SUCCESS 

As  vessels  move  at  rapid  pace 

When  with  the  wind,  but  creep  by  slow 
Degrees  against  its  force,  so  race 

Of  life  is  won  by  those  who  go 

As  native  taste  and  talent  urge. 

This  native  force  drives  on  without 
A  stay;  though  obstacles  may  surge 

To  block  the  way,  they  come  to  rout. 

Obedience  to  heavenly  law 

Brings   character   to   perfect   bloom. 
It  makes  men  feel  the  hidden  flaw 

Will  spoil  the  work  upon  the  loom. 

They  think  true  thoughts  and  never  let 
False  scorn  have  sway.    If  theirs  to  lead, 

The  power  is  hid  within  to  get 
Authority  by  worthy  deed. 

If  theirs  be  but  the  easier  part, — 
To  follow  others'  lead, —  no  less 

Their  manhood  worth.     It  needs  rare  art 
To  serve,  as  all  who  try  confess. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  37 

So  rich  or  poor  and  great  or  small, — 
All  men  may  take  their  share  of  good. 

Success  is  theirs  who  heed  the  call 
To  work  and  do  whate'er  they  should. 


38  LIFE-COLORS 


HEWN-OUT   CISTERNS 

As  hewn-out  cisterns  hold  the  rain 

Which  else  the  thirsty  earth  would  drink, 
So  man  receives  no  thought  in  vain, 
'If  mind  is  trained  to  deeply  think. 

The  size  of  cistern  large  or  small 
Is  measure  of  the  rain  received 

So  men  must  hew  thought-channels  all 
Most  deep  to  hold  the  faith  believed. 

For  God  pours  out  his  blessings  day 
By  day,  and  man  receives  the  share 

He  can  appropriate.    The  way 
Is  well  supplied  with  daily  fare. 

At  close  of  day  the  twilight  hush 
Provides  the  soul  a  breathing  space, 

An  isthmus  calm  between  the  rush 
Of  day  and  eve's  more  fevered  pace. 

If  skies  at  times  be  overcast, 
The  showers  of  blessings  fall  and  fill 

The  heart  prepared  to  hold  them  fast; 
For  this  is  matter  of  the  will. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  39 

Then  man  must  work  and  delve  and  bring 
His  powers  in  play.      Must  dig  him  wells 

Of  love,  that  birds  of  spring  may  sing 
Nearby,  and  he  may  hear  joy-bells. 


40  LIFE-COLORS 


TWO  TYPES 

WHERE  river  wound  its  sinuous  way 

Between  the  higher  lands, 
A  bridge  from  shore  to  shore  there  lay, 

Which  spanned  the  stream  and  sands. 

But  sides  all  boarded  in  forbade 

The  traveller  to  look 
Up-stream  or  down ;  ill  lot  he  had, 

Though  safe  in  sheltered  nook. 

Where  broader,   freer  river  flowed, 
A  wind-swept  bridge  did  cross 

The  stream;  and  here  from  open  road 
One  saw  the  billows  toss. 

So  men  shut  out  the  broader  view 

By  walls  of  selfishness. 
They  do  not  see  the  heaven's  clear  blue, 

But  forward  push  and  press. 

But  some  keep  hearts  alive  to  all 

The  throbbing  life  around. 
Though  other's  woe  does  them  appal, 

Still  joy  is  surely  found. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  41 


THE  CURRENT 

As  home  is  lighted  by  a  distant  force 

Brought  close  to  hand  by  well-strung  wires, 

So  weakest  man  may  gain  from  heavenly  source 
A  strength  that  tells  of  hidden  fires. 

But  unconnected  with  the  source  of  light, 
The  house  remains  a  darkened  place. 

Though  power  unlimited  is  near,  this  might 
Avails  naught  by  its  own  fair  grace. 

So  God's  great  storehouse  filled  with  power  and  love 

Is  man's  to  draw  on  if  he  will. 
But  wires  connecting  man  with  God  above 

Must  laws  of  universe  fulfill. 

Man  needs  the  quiet  intercourse  with  God 

To  gain  some  measure  of  his  love; 
And  love  poured  forth  is  power  which  makes  earth's 
sod 

Bloom  forth  like  heavenly  fields  above. 


4-2  LIFE-COLORS 


THE  INNER  CALM 

WHERE  the  waters  are  roughened  by  currents  of  air 
Which  lash  its  surface,  the  trees  that  are  there 
Reflected  move  to  and  fro,  and  share 
The  water's  burden  of  pain  and  care. 

But  the  trees,  unbending,  themselves  stand  still, 
High-arched  against  the  clear,  blue  sky. 
Their  strength  resists  the  winds  that  fill 
The  lake  with  waves  which  so  restless  lie. 

So  the  life  of  man  when  mirrored  in  days 
Reflects  the  changing  lot  below; 
A  constant  flux  between  two  ways 
Of  full  heart  joy  and  of  grievous  woe. 

But  the  heart  of  man  oft  knows  a  peace 
Which  the  storms  of  life  can  never  reach. 
A  trust  in  God  can  give  release 
From  weakening  doubt,  and  can  patience  teach. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  43 


THE  INCREASE 

A  RILLET  splashing  o'er  the   stones 

Strives  hard  that  all  its  life 
May  onward  flow,  and  gurgling  tones 

Betoken  joy  in  strife. 

As  rill  joins  rill,  the  streamlet  grows 

To  ever  greater  size. 
At  last,  as  river  broad,  it  flows 

Before  admiring  eyes. 

So  man  who  strives  to  live  as  truth 
Commands  may  seem  a  force 

To  be  ignored;  for  men  forsooth 
Heed  not  the  single  source. 

As  time  speeds  on  and  man  joins  man, 
The  hidden  strength  appears. 

Throngs  follow  him,  who  in  the  van 
Once  wrought  alone  in  tears. 

Thus,  swollen  to  a  stream,  the  crowd 

Of  men  uphold  their  cause. 
And  now,  with  hearts  so  very  proud, 

They  hear  the  glad  applause. 


44  LIFE-COLORS 


And  he  who  stood  alone  at  first 
Has  seen  the  end  he  sought. 

But  n'er,  when  cause  was  at  its  worst, 
Did  he  despair  of  aught. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  45 


BE  THYSELF 
Resolve  to  be  thyself. —  M.  Arnold. 

Do  the  lilies  with  all  their  stately  grace 
E'er  envy  the  rose, —  that  favored  flower? 

Does  the  pansy,  with  winsome  velvet  face, 
Surpass  the  vines  which  grow  and  tower 

High    above?    E'en    the    grass    we    tread    draws 
charm 

From  plants  that  oft  grow  and  bloom  unseen; 
And  none  feels  shame  or  knows  alarm, 

Because  its  lot  is  low  and  mean. 

But  each  man  is  content  to  copy  man, 

.  In  striving  to  make  the  round  hole  square. 
And  in  trying  to  follow  another's  plan, 
He  lives  a  life  of  burdened  care. 

Where  one  singer  can  fill  the  heart  with  bliss, 
A  thousand  more  voices  lack  the  art. 

Where  the  true  scientist  will  never  miss 
His  goal,  the  hundred  fail  at  start. 


46  LIFE-COLORS 


Where  the  one  can  delight  by  native  grace, 

Another  will  fail  by  studied  art. 
Where  the  one  has  the  power  to  win  the  race, 

Another  will  lose  in  crowded  mart. 

But  the  humblest  of  men  takes  heart  of  grace; 

He  needs  not  be  ere  brilliant  or  great. 
Nor  needs  he  to  win  the  doubtful  race, 

Nor  make  a  name  for  the  rolls  of  state. 

But  he  ever  must  give  in  measure  true 

His  own  individual  life  for  men. 
And  it  may  be  but  only  the  morning  dew 

Which  freshens  earth  and  goes  again. 

But  the  power  he  has,  he  must  use  straightway, 

Nor  ape,  nor  copy  another's  deed. 
And  then  he  will  have  the  world's  best  pay, 

The  satisfaction  of  inner  need. 


POEMS  OF  LIFE  47 


QUATRAIN 

THE  men  of  strength  force  circumstance 
To  yield  the  good  it  has  in  store. 

But  weaker  men  must  wait  their  chance, 
And  then  rush  in  at  open  door. 


NARRATIVE  POEMS 


51 


AVIS 

SWEET  Avis  was  the  daughter  fair 
Of  merchant  prince.     Her  youthful  days 

Were  spent  in  study  close,  and  rare 
The  aids  she  had  at  hand.    The  rays 

Of  setting  sun  beheld  no  care; 
For  there  she  trod  in  pleasant  ways. 

As  years  went  by,  she  gave  more  time 
To  pleasure's  call,  and  oft,  when  day 

Began,  glad  mirth  was  at  its  prime. 
And  as  through  morning  hours  she  lay 

Abed,  she  dreamed  of  pleasing  rhyme 
Which  sang  her  charms  in  lover's  way. 

But  still  untouched  remained  her  heart, 
And  now  she  turned  to  deeds  of  love, 

And  gave  her  time,  and  did  her  part 
To  help  the  poor.     And  far  above 

All  gifts,  she  walked  through  busy  mart 
Inspired  with  love  by  Holy  Dove. 

Thus  years  she  spent  in  service  true 
For  fellowmen,  and  then  she  gave 


52  LIFE-COLORS 


Her  love  to  one  who  did  not  sue 

As  others  had  and  did  not  rave, 
But  made  her  life  so  fair  in  hue 

She  felt  his  loss  she  must  not  brave. 

In  summer's  early  days  they  took 
Their  way  to  lake  and  mountainside. 

Mount  Willard  wore  her  fairest  look, 
As  after  charming  mountain  ride 

They  came  upon  her  heights.     No  brook 
Was  seen,  but  mountains  in  their  pride. 

Far  down  below,  the  railroad  wound 
Through  Crawford  Notch  its  sinuous  way. 

And  here,  on  mountainsides  were  found 
The  forest  trees.     The  sun  there  lay 

Upon  their  tops,  while  low  trees  round 

Stretched  forth  to  reach  the  sun's  warm  ray, 

The  rustle  of  the  leaves  was  sound 
Alone,  until  there  came  the  scream 

Of  eagle.    There  he  flew  around, 

Then  poised  in  air  and  cut  off  beam 

Of  Sun.    At  last  his  prey  he  found 
Perched  low  in  distant,  rocky  seam. 

And  here  the  slender  harebells  grew, 
And  rang  their  merry,  tender  chimes. 


NARRATIVE  POEMS  53 

As  winds  came  up  and  gently  blew, 
These  bells  gave  forth  their  lovely  rhymes. 

They  felt  their  days  were  all  too  few; 
So  they  must  swing  and  ring  betimes. 

These  marriage  bells  pealed  forth  good  cheer 
To  listening  ears.     Such  joy  and  bliss 

They  understood,  attuned  to  hear 
Earth's  melodies.    Nor  did  they  miss 

The  undertone  of  doubt  and  fear; 
For  love  brings  tears,  as  well  as  kiss. 


54  LIFE-COLORS 


THE  GREAT  STONE  FACE 

FROM  the  side  of  Mount  Cannon  the  Great  Stone  Face 
Looks  down  on  the  lake  that  lies  below. 

Each  summer  it  waits  for  a  glimpse  of  the  race 
Whose  simple  faith  taught  deadliest  foe 

Could  work  no  harm  in  its  presence  divine. 

Its  godlike  calm  shines  forth  in  each  line. 

And  now,  it  views  still  other  scenes, 

And  a  different  race  of  men.     On  the  lake 

In  the  summer  days  it  finds  what  life  means 
Of  joy  and  sport,  as  the  echoes  wake, 

With  glad  calls  of  men,  whose  blood  flows  fast, 

Aroused  by  the  might  of  the  wilderness  vast. 

One  day  when  the  lake  lay  peaceful  and  still 

Save  for  wind-stirred  ripples,  two  girls  took  a  boat 

And  rowed  to  the  place  where  a  mountain  rill 
Came  gurgling  into  the  lake.    Afloat 

On  the  glistening  waters,  they  breathed  the  air 

Which  the  trees  had  filled  with  odors  rare. 

Shut  in  by  the  hills,  they  failed  to  see 
The  gathering  clouds.    The  tempest  broke 


55 


In  sudden  fury  and  felled  a  tree 

And  lashed  the  lake  with  its  blasts.    It  woke 
The  armies  of  heaven,  who  rode  in  the  gale 
And  shot  forth  their  fires  and  sent  their  hail. 

A  struggle  to  reach  the  land,  and  then 
In  the  boathouse  safe  at  last,  they  saw 

The  angry  storm  rave  on.  But  when 
They  saw  the  Great  Stone  Face  through  a  flaw 

In  the  clouds,  they  knew  the  storm  had  passed. 

Beneath  that  gaze  no  ill  could  last. 

Wind  flurries  and  tempests  of  trouble  come 
And  drive  us  whither  they  will.  But  back 

Of  the  scene  is  the  God  of  Life,  no  dumb 
Stone  Face.  And  they,  no  courage  lack 

In  the  midst  of  life's  ills,  who  see  His  face, 

And  trust  His  plans  for  all  the  race. 


56  LIFE-COLORS 


LITTLE  ALL  RIGHT  MAN 

A  STURDY  little  man  of  two 

Goes  trampling  gaily  round. 
Since  years  are  yet  so  very  few, 

By  rule  he  is  not  bound. 
He  spends  his  hours  from  morn  till  night 
In  play,  and  this  he  thinks  All  Right. 

He  hugs  the  cat  so  very  tight 

She  tries  to  run  away; 
But  he  holds  on  with  all  his  might, 

No  matter  what  you  say. 
A  scratch  results,  and  at  this  sight 
He  weeps,  which  cannot  be  All  Right. 

He  takes  his  sister's  doll,  and  she 
Starts  up,  with  sudden  fear; 

And  yet  what  harm  could  there  well  be, 
With  her  so  very  near? 

But  though  his  joy  is  at  its  height, 

He  hands  doll  back  with  sad,  "  All  Right." 

He  digs  and  delves  with  tiny  stone, 
And  makes  a  garden  plot,. 


NARRATIVE  POEMS  57 

Then,  tired  of  staying  there  alone, 

He  comes,  an  eager  tot, 
And  gives  you  flowers  most  gay  and  bright, 
And  to  your  thanks  he  says,  "  All  Right." 

When  evening  comes,  he  thinks  it  fun 

To  go  to  bed  with  birds. 
He  does  not  watch  the  setting  sun, 

Nor  utter  many  words. 
But  eyes  close  up  before  the  light 
Of  sun  quite  fades,  which  is  All  Right. 


58  LIFE-COLORS 


THE  GIFT  OF  WINGS 
(A  LEGEND  RETOLD) 

THE  Lord  beheld  the  earth,  and  saw 

That  it  was  good  and  fair. 
Since  beauty  was  high  heaven's  law, 
He  formed  the  bird  with  slender  claw, 

And  gave  him  plumage  rare. 
His  notes  were  made  to  rival  song 

Of  stars  and  running  brooks. 
Such  music  hushes  sense  of  wrong, 
And  makes  the  white-robed  angels  long 

To  dwell  in  earth's  fair  nooks. 

The  birds  hopped  round  in  great  content, 

And  sang  for  joy  in  life. 
The  Lord  then  brought  them  wings,  and  sent 
Them  forth  most  sad  and  confident 

That  troubles  now  were  rife. 

This  burden  seemed  too  great  to  bear, 

But  they  must  do  as  told. 
They  hugged  wings  close,  with  greatest  care, 
And  soon  they  grew  to  be  a  pair 

Of  pinions  strong  to  hold 


NARRATIVE  POEMS  59 

Them  up,  and  bear  them  on  to  heights 

Before  unknown.    Each  day 
They  flew  about,  till  sunset  lights 
Began  to  fade.     On  fairest  nights 

They  flew  in  moon's  bright  ray. 

If  we,  like  birds,  press  close  our  load, 

We  too  shall  surely  see 
Our  powers  increase.     Our  daily  road 
Will  lead  from  homely,  poor  abode 

To  heights  whence  troubles  flee. 


60  LIFE-COLORS 


A  LEADER  OF  MEN 

A  LEADER  of  men  had  wrought  his  work  and  gained 
Safe  resting-place.    His  praise  now  ran  from  lip 

To  lip;  the  song  of  glory  never  waned; 
For  he  had  held  the  nation  in  his  grip, 

And  turned  to  paths  of  righteousness  its  youth, 

And  made  its  hoary  men  for  sin  feel  ruth. 

And  though  in  the  strength  of  manhood's  prime,  he  felt 
His  warrior  days  were  o'er.    Henceforth  for  him 

The  quiet  road  which  wound  through  sunny  belt 
Of  land;  for  naught  that  could  his  gladness  dim 

Was  now  to  be  his  share.     From  turmoil,  strife 

And  war  he  passed,  and  gained  the  peaceful  life. 

Then  came  the  word  that  humble  men  still  sought, 
Nor  found  relief  from  pressing  needs.    As  car 

Of  state  rolled  on,  and  crushed  them  down,  they  fought 
For  right  to  stand  erect.    Like  eastern  star, 

To  him  they  turned,  with  hope  of  succor  strong, 

And  told  their  tale  that  he  might  right  the  wrong. 

He  heard  their  plea  to  win  the  people's  ear. 
Like  rustling,  myriad  leaves  of  forest  trees, 


NARRATIVE  POEMS  61 

There  came  the  voices  clear :  "  Know  thou  no  fear. 
Go  tell  this  people;  make  them  hear.    Who  sees, 
Needs  act  forthwith.    Make  haste,  nor  know  delay; 
For  thou  wert  born  to  show  the  better  way." 

Like  prophet  touched  with  living  coal,  his  lips 
Were  opened.    "  Give  men  their  rights !  "    The  message 
came 

From  heart  aflame,  and  words,  like  stinging  whips, 
Roused  ire.     Nor  gave  he  thought  to  lasting  fame, 

But  all  his  mind  was  bent  on  serving  men, 

Though  he  "  be  broken  "  by  the  strength  of  ten. 


62  LIFE-COLORS 


" ANOTHER " 

THE  ocean  wears  its  fairest  blue, 

And  smiles  beneath  the  sun. 
Some  grey,  bare  rocks  are  washed  anew 

By  waves  that  inward  run. 

The  beach  clean  washed  of  former  prints 

Invites  the  children's  feet. 
They  cross  sharp  pointed,  slippery  flints 

And  run  in  measure  fleet. 

A  tiny  tot  of  summers  two 

Begins  to  gather  stones. 
She  throws  them  far  as  she  can  do, 

And  then,  in  urgent  tones 

She  calls  her  aunt  with  "  You,  now  you !  " 
The  aunt  throws  one  which  hits 

A  little  wave  that  comes  in  view. 
"  Oh  my !  "  child  calls  and  flits 

Away  to  find  some  more  to  throw. 

"Another,"  Mary  calls, 
And  still,  "  Another !  "    In  they  go, 

Like  tiny,  curving  balls. 


NARRATIVE  POEMS  63 

She  keeps  it  up,  with  constant  call 

For  yet  another  one. 
Nor  does  the  pleasure  seem  to  pall 

Nor  grow  less  thrilling  fun. 

So  we  keep  up  our  daily  call 

For  pleasures  new  and  old. 
In  quiet  home  and  festive  hall 

Our  joys  are  manifold. 


64  LIFE-COLORS 


WAYFARERS 

THREE  travellers  along  life's  way 
By  chance  did  meet  in  lonely  spot. 
One  was  a  youth  with  passions  hot, 

Who  sought  for  pleasure  day  by  day. 

He  journeyed  gayly  on  and  bore 
No  load  of  care  to  check  his  joy. 
He  seemed  a  gay,  light-hearted  boy 

Who  thought  of  sport  and  nothing  more. 

The  second,  of  maturer  years, 
Did  journey  with  a  load  of  care. 
His  face  was  set,  as  those  who  dare 

A  task,  and  must  not  yield  to  fears. 

The  third  did  totter  'neath  his  load, 
Although  his  years  were  scarcely  more 
Than  those  of  him  who  bravely  bore 

His  burden  o'er  the  dusty  road. 

The  youth,  with  cheery  word,  did  greet 
These  travellers.     They  gave  him  word 
For  word  and  turned  and  gladly  heard 

Him  boast  of  speed  man  could  not  beat. 


NARRATIVE  POEMS  65 

He  went  his  way  in  measure  fleet, 
And  they  felt  stronger.     For  his  youth 
Had  warmed  their  blood,  and  they  forsooth 

Renewed  their  strength  and  went  with  feet 

More  firm.     The  stronger  helped  the  weak 
A  bit  upon  the  way;  then  went 
With  swifter  pace;  lest  time  thus  spent 

Should  cause  his  waiting  friends  to  seek 

Him  out.    The  one  thus  left  felt  hope 
Within  his  heart;  for  brother  man 
Had  shown  him  love.     He  almost  ran 

Because  his  blood  flowed  fast;  for  rope 

Of  aid  in  time  of  need  stretched  out 
Had  saved  his  life.     Meanwhile  the  friend 
Who  helped,  his  onward  way  did  wend 

Till  courage  bowed  to  weakening  doubt. 

He  sought  companionship  with  One 

Who  knew  the  toiler's  load,  and  sure 

Of  sympathy  and  love  most  pure 
He  rested  'neath  the  noonday  sun. 

Then  courage  grew  within  his  heart 
And  joy  in  work  thus  planned  and  shared. 
He  knew  for  others  now  he  dared 

To  spend  his  strength,  nor  live  apart. 


66  LIFE-COLORS 


From  weary  struggle.     Burdens  borne 
Had  brought  him  skill,  which  taught  him  how 
To  help  the  other  man,  and  vow 

He  made  to  help  the  overworn. 

So  he  must  strive  to  take  the  place 
That  One  had  taught  him  how  to  fill. 
Still  confident  that,  by  God's  will 

In  work  man  found  his  highest  grace. 


NARRATIVE  POEMS  67 


BRAVE  SPIRITS 

THE  Angel  Gabriel  gave  command 

To  the  hosts  of  the  ministering  spirits  above 

That  they  go  without  stay  over  sea  and  land, 
And  search  out  those  who  showed  man  love; 

That  they  find  the  men  who  lived  most  near 
To  the  heart  of  the  Savior,  and  come  back  and  tell 

Of  the  deeds  these  had  wrought  and  every  tear 
They  shed  that  they  might  live  right  well. 

One  angel  went  far,  and  saw  brave  deeds 
That  in  pain  men  had  wrought,  for  their  sad  fellow 
man. 

Where  the  saints  of  old  had  told  their  beads, 
These  modern  men  stood  up  and  ran 

A  race  with  evil.     They  worked,  and  wrought 

A  measure  of  good  where  ill  had  been. 
The  man  of  science  toiled,  and  sought 

The  means  that  o'er  disease  would  win. 

i 

And  when  his  end  was  gained,  he  knew 
The  joy  of  the  victor  when  race  was  run. 


68  LIFE-COLORS 


And  explorers  went,  in  numbers  not  few, 
To  add  to  knowledge  whatever  they  won. 

And  men  wrought  righteousness,  and  gave 
Aid  and  release  to  the  bound  of  earth. 

And  their  deeds  of  kindness,  like  wave  on  wave, 
Formed  a  mighty  ocean  where  was  no  dearth. 

Then  one  dull  day  the  angel  came 

To  a  gloomy  house,  in  a  quiet  street. 
And  there,  through  the  livelong  day,  the  same 

Harsh  tones  his  weary  ears  did  greet. 

A  woman  with  sweetly  saddened  face 

Passed  to  and  fro,  and  in  that  air 
Of  discord  felt  not  the  saving  grace 

Of  the  angel's  presence  and  tender  care. 

Not  a  moment  of  rest  had  she,  nor  a  thought 
Of  love  from  the  aunt  she  tended  with  care. 

All  day  for  outer  grace  she  sought 
And  inner  strength  her  troubles  to  bear. 

But  the  air  surcharged  with  useless  plaints 
Bore  down  on  her  weary  spirit  sad. 

And  she  thought  of  the  martyred  heroes  and  saints, 
And  felt  their  lot  was  not  so  bad. 


NARRATIVE  POEMS  69 

And  the  angel  saw  she  must  have  release 
From  the  wearisome  course  of  her  daily  life. 

That  night,  as  she  slept,  he  made  her  cease 
To  mourn,  and  gave  freedom  from  homely  strife. 

She  wandered  in  fields  where  the  daisies  grew, 
And  gathered  the  buttercups  in  her  hands; 

And  the  winds  drew  near,  and  gently  blew 
The  feathery  grasses  on  meadow  lands; 

And  the  sun  beat  down,  and  warmed  her  soul, 
And  left  no  room  for  the  darkness  of  hate. 

Then  she  knew  that  she  had  a  goodly  dole 
In  the  beauties  of  life  which  none  could  abate. 

And  the  angel  felt  that  this  woman  bore 

Her  heavy  lot  with  a  spirit  brave. 
Though  daily  strife  her  courage  wore 

She  kept  her  heart  a  holy  nave. 


SONNETS 


SONNETS  73 


THE  REWARD 

GREAT  souls  are  lost  in  admiration  strong 
Of  God's  creative  work  as  seen  in  man. 
For  though  some  men  are  found  beneath  the  ban 

Of  God's  displeasure,  yet  far  more  do  long 

To  prove  their  sonship  by  their  scorn  of  wrong 
And  honest  help  to  those  who  in  the  van 
Lead  cause  of  righteousness.     Since  time  began. 

Men's  striking  deeds  have  been  retold  in  song. 

But  brave,  unselfish  acts  escape  their  meed 
Of  praise  ofttimes.     The  quiet  giving  up 

Of  plans  to  do  the  service  close  at  hand 
Receives  no  outward  praise.    Yet  instant  heed 
To  duty's  voice  gives  heart  at  ease  to  sup 
Life's  joys  and  see  the  light  o'er  all  the  land. 


74  LIFE-COLORS 


THE  cattle  lying  prone  on  earth  'neath  shade 
Of  trees  and  calmly  sleeping  life  away 
Give  picture  of  repose.     And  man  must  lay 

His  burdens  down  as  lights  do  slowly  fade 

And  take  his  rest.    When  work  demands  up-grade 
He  push,  he  needs  the  light  of  heaven's  ray 
And  vision  dreamed  in  quiet  hour.     They  say 

The  mountain  top  of  rest  life's  saints  has  made. 

And  some  there  are  who  in  life's  strife  and  stir 
Are  whirled  along.     They  have  no  time   for  rest, 

Or  quiet  stroll  in  sunny  glades.     The  sod 
Beneath  their  feet  they  do  not  feel,  since  whir 
Of   warring   thoughts   bestirs   their   minds.     But    zest 
Of  life  to  others  brings  sure  rest  in  God. 


SONNETS  75 


THE  RANKS  OF  MEN 

THE  ranks  of  men  like  blades  of  grass  close  stand; 

At  distance  each  looks  like  the  other  man. 

But  as   some  blades  of  grass  show  plain  where  ran 
The  cart  above,  so  men  display  the  brand 

Of  sin.     Like  dewdrop  bright  on  grassy  land 

The  kindly  deed  shines  forth.     Since  world  began, 
The  shining  deeds  of  men  well  in  the  van 
Have  glowed  like  quartz  along  a  rocky  strand. 

And  he  does  truest  service  for  his  kind 

Who  in  the  ranks  works  with  a  will,  but  keeps 

His  heart  untouched  with  greed  of  gold  and  filled 
With  love  for  God  and  man.    The  truest  mind 
Employs  its  thought  for  human  needs  and  weeps 
With  those  who  weep,  yet  sees  the  fields  are  tilled. 


76  LIFE-COLORS 


THE  LEADER 
A.  F.  P. 

HER  early  youth  was  full  of  pressing  care, 

Which  trained  her  mind  to  know  the  needs  of  all. 
The  friend  of  womankind,  she  heard  their  call 

For  leadership  and  taught  them  how  to  dare 

The  hardest  task  and  yet  to  gently  bear 
Their  sisters  on  their  hearts.     No  stony  wall 
Shut  in  her  heart;  so  she  would  oft  extol 

Her  friends  with  warmest  words  and  praises  rare. 

Like  fresh'ning  breeze  on  summer's  day  she  came 
Two  weary,  jaded  friends,  and  they  drank  in 

New  cheer  and  courage.     Strength  she  gave,  through 

faith 

In  each  one's  power  to  live  for  truth.     No  fame 
She  sought,  but  strove  to  make  her  sisters  win 
True  good,  and  not  go  hunting  pleasure's  wraith. 


SONNETS  77 


BIRCH  ROCK 

IN  level  field  a  massive  bowlder  lay, 

Near  split  in  twain  by  roots  of  birch.     A  seed 
In  crevice  of  the  rock  had  given  heed 

To  nature's  laws,  and  made  no  pause  nor  stay, 

Until  its  roots  had  pushed  their  sinuous  way 
To  outer  light,  and  reached  the  soil  where  need 
Of  food  was  satisfied.     A  valorous  deed 

These  roots  performed  by  simple  growth  each  day. 

Some  men  exert  a  quiet,  steady  force 
For  righteousness.     Their  power  increases,  till 

They  seem  to  gain  momentum  through  the  strife, 
And  crush  the  evil  down.     Their  onward  course 
Becomes  resistless;  for  they  daily  will 
The  right,  which  has  immortal  strength  and  life. 


78  LIFE-COLORS 


AFTER  STORM 

WHEN  dark  and  low'ring  clouds  shut  out  the  light 
Of  sun,  the  storm  in  fury  breaks.    At  last, 
Through  rents  in  the  black  clouds  so  huge  and  vast, 

The  sun  begins  to  shine.     As  sky  grows  bright, 

The  vari-colored  rainbow  claims  its  right 
To  beautify  the  heavens.     Like  trumpet  blast, 
Its  colors  cheer  the  heart,  and  make  it  cast 

Its  burdens  down,  and  rouse  the  blood  to  fight. 

In  life  fierce  storms  of  sorrow  come  and  break 
Above  man's  head.    The  darkness  deepens;  still 

At  last  some  rays  of  hope  appear.     Man's  span 
Of  life,  illumined  with  the  joys  which  make 
Its  color,  has  grown  rich  in  shades  which  fill 
The  background,  and  show  forth  life's  wondrous  plan. 


SONNETS  79 


VOICES 

THE  warblers  sing  unnoticed  by  the  throng 
Of  men  who  pass  beneath  the  trees  where  they 
Hold  revelry.     But  faintest  notes  will  stay 

The  man  with  ears  alert  to  hear  their  song. 

The  music  of  the  woods  does  not  belong 

To  men  whose  ears  are  dulled;  they  hear  not  lay 
Of  springtime  minstrel  passing  by  their  way. 

But  notes  catch  ears  of  those  whose  love  is  strong. 

Thus  conscience  sends  its  messages  in  vain 
To  men  intent  on  gath'ring  in  more  store. 

But  those  who  train  themselves  to  hear  its  voice 
May  catch  its  mandates.     They  nor  fret,  nor  strain, 
But  keep  the  heart  with  opening  swinging  door: 
And  oft  for  sin  they  mourn,  for  love  rejoice. 


80  LIFE-COLORS 


THE  MAGIC  ROBE 

THE  snow  with  purest  mantle  covers  o'er 

All  spots  alike,  the  ugly  and  the  fair. 

Beneath  its  glittering  robe  the  fields  all  wear 
A  smiling  face,  and  men  can  see  no  more 
The  rock-ribbed  hills  and  fields,  which  often  wore 

A  stern  and  dismal  look  they  do  not  dare 

Display,  when  fairest  mantle,  spread  with  care, 
Conceals  the  lack  of  beauty  at  their  core. 

So  love  weaves  magic  robes,  which  make  all  men 
Appear  beloved  and  fair.     It  shuts  its  eyes 

To  the  unbeautiful,  and  quickly  throws 
Its  mystic  robe  around  the  loved  one.    Then, 
Thus  armored  he  can  well  all  ill  despise 
For  love  can  shield  him  from  the  worst  of  woes. 


NATURE 


NATURE  83 


THE  EVERGREENS 

AT  God's  command  the  earth  brought  forth  the  trees, 

Each  bearing  seed  to  reproduce  its  kind. 

In  divers  climes  they  grew,  and  sought  to  find 
The  climate  suited  to  their  love  of  ease. 

The  evergreens  He  sent  to  northern  lands, 

Where  frost  and  cold  drive  out  all  timid  souls. 
And  here,  as  season  after  season  rolls, 

They  patiently  obey  the  Lord's  commands. 

When  sparkling  lights  on  drifted  snow  make  blind 
The  dazzled  eyes,  the  evergreens  present 
Their  darksome  shades,  and  are  most  confident 

That  they  can  bring  relief  to  weary  mind. 

Through  summer's  heat  and  winter's  dreary  waste 

They  toil  unweariedly;  the  inner  grace 

Breathes  forth  in  fragrance  rare.    They  feel  God's  face 
Is  bent  above;  so  they  need  make  no  haste. 


84  LIFE-COLORS 


THE  WILLOW 

OF  old  the  willow  stood  erect  and  straight, 

And  lived  content  with  self. 
She  thought  not  of  her  need  of  loving  mate, 

But  joyed  in  friendly  elf. 

The  brook  that  glided  by  her  feet  then  sought 

To  reach  her  mind  and  heart. 
It  murmured  loving*  its  tale,  which  wrought 

Its  work  with  charming  art. 

"  I  lave  your  feet  for  the  love  I  bear  to  you," 

Quoth  the  brook  in  tender  tone. 
She  caught  the  whispered  words,  and  felt  sore  rue 

For  him  that  made  this  moan. 

She  bent  her  head;  her  mirrored  face  looked  back 

From  out  the  smiling  brook. 
"  See ;  you  are  mirrored  here ;  and  there's  no  lack," 

Quoth  he,  with  loving  look. 

More  frequent  and  still  more  frequent  grew  her  need 

Of  bending  o'er  the  brook. 
At  last  naught  else  her  hungry  heart  could  feed 

Except  the  glance  she  took. 


NATURE  85 

So  by  and  by  she  lost  her  power  to  stand 

Erect  and  primly  straight. 
Her  loss  was  gain,  she  knew ;  and  stretched  her  hand 

Unto  her  waiting  mate. 


86  LIFE-COLORS 


THE  ELM 

IN  a  land  where  the  rigor  of  winter  holds  sway 
Through  long  stretches  of  days,  there  the  grace 

And  the  beauty  of  tropical  life  with  its  gay, 
Brilliant  bloom  stir  the  soul  of  the  race. 

But  the  eye  of  the  seeing  finds  beauty  and  charm 

In  the  arch  of  the  tall,  native  elm. 
Like  a  monarch  it  stands,  never  showing  alarm 

Lest  the  storm  should  its  glory  o'erwhelm. 

When,  riven  of  leaves,  it  still  towers  aloft, 

Its  beauty  is  clearly  revealed. 
'Tis  the  type  of  the  new  world's  manhood  oft 

Sore-tossed,  but  whose  worth  is  well  sealed. 


NATURE  87 


THE  WIND'S  FROLIC 

JULY  had  done  her  best  to  prove  most  clear 
That  this  day  of  strong  east  winds  which  brought  the  air 

From  sea,  ten  miles  away  should  not  appear 
In  summer's  calendar.  Bold  wind  to  dare 
Escape  from  April's  lair! 

July  was  at  a  loss  how  she  should  greet 

This  reckless  guest,  but  bade  her  blossoms  bend 

Before  the  blast,  and  thus  attempt  to  cheat 
Their  merry  friend  of  half  the  fun;  so  fend 
Off  harm,  yet  guest  attend. 

The  flowers  heeded  well  her  words,  and  took 
Good  care  of  their  dainty,  summer  clothes.    But  some, — 

Like  the  flaring  poppies, —  lost  their  clothes  and  must  look 
In  vain  for  others  to  take  their  place.  How  their  dumb 
Despair  left  them  all  numb ! 

The  sturdy  bachelor's  buttons  waved  in  air 
And  one  bent  low  beneath  the  fairy  weight 

Of  goldfinch  feeding  on  its  seeds.     No  care 
Showed  he  for  his  wife  on  rose  bush  nigh  whose  fate 
Was  that  of  slighted  mate. 


88  LIFE-COLORS 


The  mad  cap  wind  harassed  him  as  he  bent 
To  bite  his  seed  —  he  bit  his  tongue  instead, —  ' 

And,  swaying  helpless  on  his  stalk,  he  sent 
Loud  protests  to  his  mate ;  "  'Tis  hard,"  he  said, 
"  To  go  unfed  to  bed." 


NATURE  89 


RUTH  wandered  forth  with  mind  intent 
On  finding  beauties  not  yet  seen. 

The  salt  sea-air  new  vigor  lent; 
The  sun  shone  clear  on  growing  bean 

Which  forward  bent. 

There,  skimming  o'er  the  marsh's  face, 
The  swallows  swept  along;  then  soared 

Aloft  with  flutt'ring  wing  in  race 
With  air,  which  could  full  well  afford 

Their  headlong  pace. 

And  when  came  need  to  take  a  rest, 
They  glided  on,  with  quiet  wing, 

And  twittered  merrily.    A  test 

Of  strength  like  this  brought  wish  to  sing. 

No  need  of  rest. 

The  meadow-larks  walked  gravely  round 
And  found  scant  joy  in  daily  search 

For  faod.    Their  whistled  song  from  mound 
Of  grass  or  lowest  branch  of  birch 

Made  mournful  sound. 


90  LIFE-COLORS 


And  here  the  bobolinks  had  built 
Their  nests  amid  the  rip'ning  grass 

And  rode  on  meadowsweet  a-tilt; 
While  some  in  level  flight  did  pass, 

With  wings  begilt. 

The  undulating  grass  waved  to 
And  fro,  stirred  by  its  load  of  fear. 

Full  soon  came  sound  of  scythe,  and  new, 
Strange  sights  appeared  in  view,  for  here 

Fell  meadow-rue. 

Across  the  way,  all  growing  wild, 
The  roses  massed  themselves;  nearby 

The  orang«  scarlet  lilies  piled 

Their  blossoms,  which  could  thus  defy 

The  roses  mild. 

Like  crescent  moon,  the  white  sea-beach 
Spread  out  between  two  piles  of  rock, 

And  looked  across  at  isles  where  each 

Showed  clear.     The  waves  made  merry  mock 

Of  shore's  vain  reach. 


NATURE  91 


GOOD  CHEER 

DECEMBER'S  early  snow  around  was  flung, 

Still  rhododendron  leaves  showed  green. 

The  grape-vines  had  a  reddish  sheen; 
Hydrangea  blossoms  to  the  bush  still  clung 

And  rustled  forth  their  tales, 

When  swept  by  winter  gales. 

To  lilac  tree  the  chickadee  now  flew 

And  hopped  about  and  hummed  an  air, 

Content,  because  the  day  was  fair. 
But  as  the  wind  about  him  strongly  blew, 

His  plumage  roughened  so, 

He  looked  in  deepest  woe. 

Soon  came  the  words,   "  Sweet-sweet,"  and  then 
pause, 

And  twice  there  came  these  words  most  clear. 

For  what  knew  he  of  doubt  or  fear? 
And  when  I  looked  about  to  find  the  cause, 

No  mate  appeared  in  sight, 

Nor  came  near  him  to  light. 


9*  LIFE-COLORS 


"  The  uses  of  adversity  are  sweet," 
And  winter  gales  give  chance  to  show 
His  strength  to  bear  and  skill  to  know 

The  haunts  where  wants  are  satisfied.    His  meat 
He  finds  in  plenty  round 
Where  eggs  of  moths  abound. 

And  has  he  used  the  words  so  oft  at  home 
To  her  his  mate  when  life  was  glad, 
That  now,  when  weary  oft  and   sad, 

He   cheers   himself  beneath   the   sky's   cold   dome 
With  thought  of  love,  sweet  love, 
All  other  things  above? 

Or  has  he  inner  grace  to  know  the  joy 

In  life  itself?    And  does  he  feel 

His  pulses  leap  and  make  appeal 
For  contest  keen  with  winds  that  do  annoy, 

That  thus  the  joy  of  strife 

May  give  a  zest  to  life? 


NATURE  93 


ARBUTUS 

ARBUTUS  sweet, 

You  come  the  first  spring  days  to  greet. 
With  joy  we  hail  the  welcome  sight 
Of  your  shy  face,  which  looks  so  bright 
And  fair  against  the  darksome  leaves. 
Your  sweetness  n'er  the  heart  deceives. 

Arbutus  fair, 

We  prize  the  dainty  robe  you  wear. 
Like  flush  upon  the  fairest  cheek, 
Your  color  charms,  and  so  we  seek 
The  flower  with  deepest  hue.     Fair  dame, 
Your  beauty  brings  you  world-wide  fame. 

Arbutus  bold, 

We  long  to  know  what  hidden  hold 
You  have  on  strength  and  love,  that  you 
Can  blossom  forth  in  fairest  hue 
While  violets  are  still  abed, 
And  roses  seem  as  if  all  dead. 


Arbutus  rare, 


/\routus  rare, 
We  go  to  hunt  your  bloom  so  fair. 


94  LIFE-COLORS 


We  take  our  way  o'er  sandy  plains, 
Through  groves  of  pines,  where  shady  lanes 
Invite  our   feet.    We  seek  and  find; 
And  then  together  blossoms  bind. 


NATURE  95 


SONG  OF  THE  FERNS 

BY  flowing  stream  we  dwell  content, 

And  know  a  peaceful  joy. 
We  lift  our  fronds,  since  confident 

That  none  will  here  annoy. 

In  clumps  and  groups  we  form  a  mass 

Of  living,  waving  sheen; 
And  wintergreen  and  blades  of  grass 

Make  forest  floor  all  green. 

We  love  the  gentle  winds  that  blow 
Across  the  peaceful  stream; 

We  watch  its  steady,  onward  flow 
Beneath  the  sun's  bright  beam. 

The  pewee's  constant  note  we  hear 
Through  hottest  summer  days; 

He  drives  from  burdened  minds  all  fear 
With  peaceful,  tender  lays. 

We  live  and  breathe  the  fragrant  air, 
Nor  work,  nor  toil,   nor  spin. 

We  grow  exceeding  green  and  fair, 
Since  free  from  mortal  sin. 


This  book  is  DUE  on  the  last 
date  stamped  below 


2m-6,'52(A1855)470 


PS 

3FJ1  Fi 


H5822    1      Life-colors 


UC  SOUTHERN  REGIONAL  LIBRARY  FACILITY 


A  000  924  824  6 


PS 

3515 
H5822  1 


